The document summarizes changes to the IGCSE ICT examination and certification in the UK. It discusses replacing coursework with practical exams, emulating exam tasks in lessons, focusing on software skills and revising lessons to prepare students. It also notes the exam will assess computer systems, networks, data types and other topics and links to their school's A-Level ICT course.

1. IGCSE ICT A examination for the TENS

2. IGCSE ICT The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is the world's most popular international qualification for 14–16 year olds. It develops successful students, giving them excellent preparation for their next steps in education, including progression to A and AS Level study, and equips them with skills for immediate employment.

3. A new examination Level 1 Certificate of ICT and Level 2 Certificate of ICT form the basis of ICT at GCSE level. Level 1 is gained by students achieving below grade C Level 2 is gained by students achieving level C and above

4. No more coursework The new examination removes coursework replacing it with two practical examinations taken in April of year 10 and April year 11. These exams cover: spreadsheets, websites, databases, document manipulation, presentations, and email

5. Coursework becomes Coursework will be replaced by a series of mini tasks which emulate the examination. These will cover all the main elements of the examination and will link applications taught in lessons

6. Examination The two examination papers currently sat will be replaced by one sat in November (year 11). In the past the Summer examination has resulted in large numbers re-sitting the exam in January there will be no planned re-sit.

7. Why change? Simple answer – we have to, the Government tell us to change. The course we planned to take was far too complex so we have opted for a standard examination course that is traditional and puts the rigour back into GCSE.

8. Helping Students To help students with the new course there will be a change in the way that it is delivered. Practical work will consist of: Lessons on the advanced skills of software A timed practical exercise emulating the exam Feedback on the work carried out

9. Helping students In theory lessons these will be taught as at present, however Buddy Revision © will be introduced with the course. The specification includes: Computer systems Input, output and storage devices Networks Data types Effects, ICT use Systems analysis and Design

10. Linking The IGCSE specification links directly onto the AQA A level ICT; the course we teach at A level. No other GCSE links in the same way, another reason for choosing it.

11. The teaching staff Mr Astall Team leader / assessor for the examination at International Level. Mr Patel

12. Help If you require more information then please contact the ICT staff. Please remember to fill in the questionnaire as this will help in our plans for the new course. Further information from: http://www.igcseict.info/